Yes Man

Reviewed by:
Eric Alt

The Skinny: Jim Carrey stars as a man stuck in a negative depression spiral who eventually breaks out thanks to a new age philosophy (saying "Yes" to everything) and a new age-y girl (the always reliable quirk pixie Zooey Deschanel).

The Good: This is a movie made for TV viewing. A pleasingly amusing movie rather than a double-over laugh riot, Yes Man could almost be a particularly good (and long) sitcom episode. Carrey isn't nearly as mug-happy as the trailers make him seem, and the central theme is uplifting if painfully obvious from the get-go. Good supporting turns from Deschanel and especially Rhys Darby (as Carrey's hopelessly nerdy boss) do a good job of overshadowing the flaws.

The Bad: Again, there's more than a few good ideas and a decent cast here, but none of it ever really takes off. No one here is exactly doing any heavy lifting, and it shows. You'll chuckle and smile, but you won't be quoting it afterwards.

Best Extra: As in any Carrey movie, the Gag Reels are worth a look. Although Yes Man's collection of blown takes isn't as raucous as Liar Liar's, it's worth watching for the shot of Deschanel giving the camera a silent "He's crazy" sign unbeknownst to Carrey. Her face indicates she may not be entirely joking.

Buy, Rent, or Ignore: A good, inoffensive rental.

Share